Experiences: Good Hope

Projects > Africa > Tanzania > Good Hope

Mike Billingsly, who moved to the US a year ago, but grew up in Scotland, volunteered at Good Hope in October 2007.

I stayed and taught at Good Hope in October 2007 for approximately two months. One thing that people have to remember when they come out to Tanzania, is not just accepting the usual downgrade in living standard and societal differences, but it is that going to spend time in Tanzania for most people usually indicates a break off from the norm of their lives. It could be a gap year or time out of work, either way it is doing something different and that usually means stepping into a new mental state. So its important for people to do so with consideration for others and especially the kids.

You're more than likely only going to spend a maximum of 6 months at Good Hope which is never long enough to be a Tanzanian, and although you will be doing volunteer work, no organization is going to send untrained people into positions of power, dangerous or life threatening situations, so don't expect to change the world. But if you look at your position realistically and aim to put in the effort, for not just personal experience, but for the healthy growth and education of the children, then expect a worthwhile time and the possibility of having a really developing effect on the world.

Probably the most impressive part of the orphanage is the Mohamed family who organize it. They look after you in the warmest possible way and you get the feeling that they would do anything to ensure the kids have a good life and education. Ali Mohamed is the son of the coordinator and is a lifesaver as, not only is his English excellent, but so is his approach to situations, maturity and character. Respect for the project and the Mohamed family along with an confident introduction of your personal skills will bring about a fantastic time.

If it is your first time in Tanzania then don't try and get any preconceived ideas or notions, just go and see with your own eyes. Just know that you will be tested. Teaching classes is not easy, and you will have a lot of experiences, whether it is eating goat at the market, riding dala dala, going on safari, trying to make things go faster or eating ugali (a local food made from corn flour). What you make of these experiences is up to you but I think it is advisable to seize the opportunity.

Just know that all the people at Good Hope; the kids, the Mohamed family, the cook and all the others who pass by will look after you. Good Hope is not on the same scale as some NGOs, but it does provide an insight into what I think is a noble and admirable project that focuses on helping local children get the best out of life. Don't be too afraid to ask, don't be too quick to judge and keep your eyes and mind open.

Of course this is all personal experience and opinion, but I hope you find it useful.

Mike Billingsley